France has eased expectations of recognising a Palestinian state in the near future. The French Foreign Minister said the country remains committed to the idea but believes recognition should carry more weight than a symbolic gesture.
Later this month, France will co-host a United Nations conference in New York with Saudi Arabia. The event will focus on advancing a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Some had expected France to announce recognition of a Palestinian state during the conference. This followed President Emmanuel Macron’s growing frustration over Israel’s restrictions on aid entering Gaza.
“France could have made a symbolic gesture. But we chose a different path because, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, we carry a special responsibility,” said Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot. Still, he confirmed France’s intention to move in that direction.
Coordination with the UK and broader EU context
Several EU countries, including Ireland, Spain, and Sweden, already recognise a Palestinian state. Others, like Germany, continue to support a two-state solution but believe recognition now could send the wrong message.
France is closely coordinating with the United Kingdom on this matter. The UK has also held off on recognising Palestine. Diplomatic ties between the two countries have strengthened since Brexit.
Macron calls for progress, highlights need for mutual recognition
On Thursday, President Macron said he expects the conference to take steps toward recognising Palestine, though he did not provide details. He has expressed hope that a French decision would encourage other governments to follow suit. Macron also urged countries that do not recognise Israel to do so.
Barrot also pointed to the need to address Hamas’s disarmament. He called this issue essential for moving forward. Hamas controls the Gaza Strip.
Background on the conflict and recent tensions
Hamas launched a large-scale attack on Israel on 7 October 2023. The assault killed 1,218 people, mostly civilians, according to official figures compiled by AFP. Militants also took 251 hostages. Israeli authorities say 55 remain in Gaza, including 32 believed to be dead.
Israel responded with a military campaign in Gaza. According to the health ministry there, the offensive has killed 54,677 people, mainly civilians. The United Nations considers these figures reliable.
In recent weeks, tensions between France and Israel have increased. Israel’s foreign ministry accused Macron of leading a “crusade against the Jewish state” after he urged European countries to take a tougher stance if conditions in Gaza did not improve.
